Church of St Mary, historic church in Holy Island, Northumberland, England, United Kingdom
The Church of St Mary is a church building on Holy Island built between 1180 and 1300, making it the oldest structure on the island. Its interior features round arches from the late 12th century in the north arcade and 13th-century windows in the chancel, along with a small bellcote at the west end.
The building emerged during the late Romanesque period and may have been connected to the original monastery on the island or built by Christian Vikings in the area. Its long history is intertwined with the spiritual significance of the island, particularly following Saint Cuthbert's legacy and the movement of his remains.
The church is named after the Virgin Mary and reflects the island's long Christian tradition. Visitors can sense this heritage through modern sculptures inside depicting monks and through regular community gatherings that keep the spiritual life of the place alive today.
The church is open daily from early morning until evening and provides level access with accessible toilets inside the building for visitors with mobility needs. Parking is available nearby, and the location is easily reached on foot or by bicycle, with provisions for dogs and bikes.
One bell inside the small bellcote may date to 1754, offering a tangible link to the past centuries. The 19th-century north vestry was once used to hold the bodies of drowned sailors, a poignant reminder of the island's maritime history.
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